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"MONMOUTH" 



OR 



The Treason of Charles Lee, 

Former Half-pay Lieutenant Colonel British Army, 
Second in Command. 



A Dramatic Monograph of the American Revolution 



IN ONE ACT 



BY RANDOLPH KEIM 



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44 



MONMOUTH" 



OR 



The Treason of Charles Lee, 

Former Half-pay Lieutenant Colonel British Army, 
Second in Command. 



A Dramatic Monograph of the American Revolution , 
IN ONE ACT. 

BY RANDOLPH KEIM 



To which are appended : 

Eetbospective of a Marplot. — Charles Lee, a General 
without a victory. 

Perspective of Two Heroines. — Mary Ludwig Hays, Cap- 
tain "Molly" of "Monmouth"; Margaret Cochran Cor- 
bin, Captain "Maggy" of "Port Washington." 



OOPYRIOHT 1907 BY DeB. RANDOLPH KEIM. 

All rights reserved. The right of performing the herewith 
named Drama must be had from the Author, or whom he 
may designate in writing as his Agent. 



4" ^ 



It is with the profoundest feelings of admira- 
tion the author inscribes this dramatic develop- 
ment of the 

BATTLE OF MONMOUTH 

To the Sixteenth Continental Congress of the 

DAUGHTERS 
OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 

Held at Washington, in the District of Coiumbia, 

April 15th to 20th, 1907, 

And of the Independence of the United States of 
America, One Hundred and Thirty-first. 









TO THE AUDITOR. 



There has been much comment concerning 
the indisposition of American Audiences to 
properly support dramatic performances, hav- 
ing for their theme and action, events of thril- 
ling and formative interest in their own his- 
tory. 

This, of all things, is radically unAmerican, 
for of any branch of the human family the 
American has the greatest reason to be proud 
of his country. He is the Sovereign of the 
land. Its Government and institutions were not 
formulated and fought out by a self-exalting, 
warrior nor an ambitious, self-aggrandizing 
monarch. 

Its inception v/as the united wisdom, assimi- 
lation of authority and enactment of regularly 
and peacefully constituted deputies of the peo- 
ple. Its Declaration of Independence of the 
mother power was the action of the thirteen 
legally constituted Commonwealths of the 
former thirteen North American Colonies of 
Great Britain. The good fight was led by 
a soldier chosen from among the members of 
the Congress then sitting and in behalf of its 
supreme popular authority. 

Therefore, the American people as a whole 
and particularly those descendant from the times 
of the Revolution, have additional reason to be 
proud of their country, because it was framed 
by their forebears as a "nation of the people 
by the people for the people." 

The fact that a citizen, man, woman, or 
child, was not participant by descent in ihe 



events of the Revolution is the more reason 
for his, her or its grateful recognition of the 
sufferings and sacrifices of those who did 
as they are enjoying the heritage of the 
deeds of men and women who laid the 
foundation and reared the superstructure to 
be enlarged and strengthened by the efforts 
of the sons and daughters of Old Glory, 
whether by descent, birth or adoption. 

It is due to a mighty and national, state, 
county, municipal and rural, home and foreign 
association of women that the greatest amount 
of organized effort has been and is being ac- 
complished to keep aflame the fires of patriot- 
ism in the hearts of the people. 

The Memorial Continental Hall at Washing- 
ton, D. C, is a monument to the earnestness 
of their zeal and the economy of their efforts. 



Tactical Manoeuvers Immediately 
Preceding the Battle. 



As soon as Washington became convinced of 
the serious intention of Sir Henry Clinton, the 
nev/ British Commander, to abandon Philadel- 
phia and form a junction with his forces in 
New Yonk, he detached General Maxwell's Bri- 
gade in co-operation with the Militia of New 
Jersey to impede the movements of the enemy 
until he could bring up his main force still at 
Valley Forge. 

The Continental troops and such militia as 
could be hastily gotten together proceeded to 
Coryell's Ferry, where they crossed the Dela- 
ware (June 22, 1778). Here Morgan with a 
select Corps of 600 men was detached to rein- 
force Maxwell, meanvv^hile the main Army ad- 
vanced towards Princeton. 

The tardy movements of Clinton caused the 
American Chief to suspect a plan for a general 
action, by enticing him into the low country 
and falling suddenly upon his right. For this 
reason he halted at Hopewell five miles from 
Princeton until June 25th. 

During the preceding day Washington had 
made a second detachment of 1,500 select men 
under Brigadier General Charles Scott with 
troops from Virginia to reinforce those already 
in touch with the enemy. 

On June 26th Washington advanced to Kings- 
ton. There, having learned through his spies 
that the enemy was heading towards Monmouth 
Court House, he despatched a thousand of his 



best men under Wayne, with La Fayette in 
command of the entire Corps, including Max- 
well's brigade and Morgan's Light Infantry 
with orders, to fall upon the enemy's rear and 
attack at the first fair opportunity. 

The evening of the same day (26th) leaving 
the baggage train of his Army, Washington ad- 
vanced from Kingston with a view to preserv- 
ing a proper distance for supporting the ad- 
vance. This movement brought the main Ameri- 
can Army to Cranberry early on the morning of 
June 27th. 

A fearful storm and the intense heat delayed 
further movements on that day it being all im- 
portant to husband the energies of his main 
troops for an evidently impending conflict. 

The Advanced Corps however left its position 
of the night before and took post the same even- 
ing on the Monmouth road about five miles from 
the British rear with the intention of attacking 
the moment it resumed its march. 

The position of Washington with his main 
Army at Cranberry now being too remote for 
support in case of attack, moved up, while La 
Fayette led off by his left towards English- 
town. This movement the Marquis executed 
early on the morning of the 27th. 

Sir Henry Clinton divining the purpose of 
these combinations, during his march from Al- 
lentown, entirely changed the disposition of his 
troops by transferring all his best to his rear. 

To meet this combination Washington in- 
creased the strength of his Advance Corps by 
detaching Lee with two brigades to join the 
Marquis at Englishtown. Lee being the senior 
officer naturally came into command of the 
whole, the entire force consisting of 5,000 men. 



OVERTURE. 



Medley Continental Field Airs, with Drum 
and Fife Solo, "On the road to Boston," "Rural 
Felicity," "My Dog and Gun." 



CHARACTERS. 



American Army. 

Washington (George), Commander-in-Chief. 

Scammel, Adjutant General. 

Knox, Chief of Artillery. 

Hamilton, Aid de Camp. 
Lee (Charles), former half-pay Lieutenant 
Colonel, British Army. 

La Fayette (Marquis de), Commanding Ad- 
vance Corps, until outranked by Lee. 
Gimat, Aid. 

Wayne (Anthony) holds the "Bloody Angle." 

Grayson (William), with Carolina Brigade. 

Dickinson, Commanding New Jersey Brigade. 

Shreve and Howard, regimental officers. 

Captain Swift (Reginald), of the Continen- 
tal Light Horse, Chief of Scouts. 

Captain "Molly" (Mary Ludwig Hays) — 
An officer — Another officer — an Aide de 
Camp — Captain of the Guard — A gunner 
— An express — A fifer — A Soldier — A Sen- 
try — A Countryman. 

Orderlies — Soldiers — Light Infantrj^ — Ar- 
tillery — Militia and Contingents. 

British Army. 
Monckton, Colonel of Grenadiers. 
Andre, Adjutant-General. 
Shadrack, of the Light Dragons. 
Von Asel, of the Yagers. 
Adam Meriweather, a howling subject. 



Eve, his spouse with strong patriotism. 
Their daughters, 

Lucille. A blonde struck with a certain 
Mischinanza, knight and bold Dragoon. 

Maybelle. a brunette, with a heart between 
the lines, full of anguish for a Buff and 
Blue. 

Sekgeam' of Grenadiers. A Messenger. 

A Negro Servant, (Rltfus.) 

Guards, Grenadiers, Infantry, Chasseurs, 

Dragoons, Hessians, Loyalist, Provincials. 
Place. In the vicinity of Monmouth Court 

House, in the State of New Jersey. 
Time. June 28th, 1778— (The Sabbath)— and 

evening of the day before and dawn of 

the day after. 



MONMOUTH 

A DRAMA 
OF CONTINENTAL ARMS 



IN ONE ACT 



SCENE I. 
Cranberry in Xeiv Jersey. June 26. 1718 
Ca'nip of the American Army — Washington's 
Marquee right — Office tents, left, opposite — 
Sentries — Life Guards — Soldiers al)Out. 
Road to Monmouth passes across the rear, 
line of direction northeast, to right of stage. 
Washington seated at a Camp ta^le icith 
a map before him. La Fayette seated on 
his left — ScAMMEL and Hamilton writing 
in front of office tents. 
Washington. Speak freely Marquis, I am al- 
ways pleased to ascertain your views. 
La Fayette. I wish to recall the incident at 
Valley Forge upon General Lee's rejoining 
the Colors, after his exchange. 
Washington. It was a strange proceeding at 

best and yet had a humorous side. 
La Fayette. Possibly I took it too seriously. 
It involved a solemn trust, and considered 
in connection with his conduct on another 
occasion — 



12 

Washington. You refer to Basking Ridge. 

La Fayette. In part, but his conduct in gen- 
eral. That should be sufficient to suggest 
vigilance at least. 

Washington. It struck me at the time, it had 
a very unsoldierly appearance. 

La Payette. At least — A general officer estab- 
lishing his headquarters four miles distant 
from his conimand. His capture by a scout 
of the enemy — The bringing away of his 
troops by another, fortunately in time 
to participate in the affairs at Trenton and 
Princeton, must have had a motive. 

Washington. The subsequent course however 
of General Howe was calculated to disarm 
suspicion. His imprisonment in New York 
and rating as a deserter from the British 
Army with orders to be sent to England for 
trial — 

La Payette. Which may have been part of the 
programme, notwithstanding your communi- 
cation to General Howe that you would hold 
five Hessian officers in your hands as hostages 
for his personal safety — 

Washington. Forced him to be regarded as a 
prisoner — subject to the laws of war. 

La Payette. And from certain information at 
hand operating meanwhile in his own behalf^ 
to betray you upon first opportunity. 

Washington. Marquis, ever loyal to my inter- 
ests, I may be over confident in the rectitude 



13 

of a character not always entitled to favor- 
able consideration. 

La Fayette. I wish General to bring to your 
further attention — it will be the first battle 
in which General Lee participates since his 
liberation by his countrymen. 

Washington. A point not to be overlooked. 

La Fayette. Bringing the subject nearer home 
you may remember Congress having requisi- 
tioned the Commander-in-Chief to administer 
the oath of allegiance to all general officers 
before entering upon the present campaign, 
General Lee twice withdrew his hand from 
The Book. And when questioned by your- 
self as to his motive replied, "as to King 
George I am ready enough to absolve myself 
from all allegiance, but I have some scruples 
about the Prince of Wales." 

Washington. Very much like a bargain with 
a string to it. He nevertheless subscribed. 

La Fayette. It carried significance to many 
of those present, v/hich has increased in the 
light of his conduct at the Hopewell Council. 

Washington. Very right Marquis. It is well 
to scrutinize men's actions especially when 
there is such good occasion. 

La Fayette. In response to your proposition 
as to bringing Sir Henry Clinton to a general 
action, General Lee vehemently opposed such 
a course. 



14 

Washington. His specious arguments, sup- 
ported by imagined skill in warlike matters, 
experience, though of no creditable variety, 
and very doubtful ability, succeeded in swerv- 
ing some of the juniors. 
La Payette. As a consequence the better judg- 
ment of the first in command was set aside 
in deference to the dubitable opinions of the 
second. 

Washington. Nor was he less discursive as to 
even troubling his countrymen in their at- 
tempts to reach a haven of escape. 

La Fayette. The movements of the enemy 
have warranted this deduction — to advance a 
large detachment to attack their rear, hold- 
ing the main Army in sufficient proximity for 
a general engagement should the prospects of 
victory be reasonably favorable. 

Washington. The command of this detach- 
ment operating upon the heels of the enemy 
would naturally fall to General Lee. 

La Fayette. Who is absolutely opposed to the 
plan. Considering the attitude of General 
Lee, I tender my services where it may suit 
Your Excellency to place them in the attack- 
ing division. 

Washington. The substitution should have 
the previous consent of General Lee. 

La Fayette. In the conduct of an enterpise in 
which General Lee did not concur — 

Washington. I am fully determined to assume 



15 

all the responsibility for the risk and the 
result. A battle at best is the hazard of a 
die. Some unseen spectre of alarm may 
fright into a panic. The merest drop of in- 
cident turn to a deluge. 
La Fayette. I have the consent of General 
Lee to lead the Advance Corps, coupled with 
his disapproval of the project of the Com- 
mander-in-Chief, with the additional assur- 
ance, in its double application to himself, that 
it will fail and his willingness to be relieved 
from any responsibility in carrying it out. 
WAsiirxGTox. Which meets with my full con- 
currence as to yourself. 

(Addressing that officer. 
Colonel Scammel will order all Continental 
detachments already on the lines, under com- 
mand of Marquis de La Fayette for gaining 
the enemy's left flank and rear— He will at- 
tack the enemy as occasion may require even 
to the extent of his full force. He will main- 
tain his communication with the main Army, 
which I shall hold available for a general 
action. 

(Scammel folds and hands the instructions 
to La Fayette — Both rise. 
Wasiiingtox. (Proceed together a few steps, 
halt—face each o^Tier— Washington places 
left hand on La Fayette's shoulder and tak- 
ing his right). Marquis for victory or death. 
La Fayette. I vouch my life for success. 



16 

Washington. Then Heaven bring success, 
(Exit La Fayette, Washington reseats 
himself. Enter General Lee in a flurry as 
ivell as a hurry. Halts 'before the table. 
Salutes. 

Washington. (Looking up returning salute). 
I last had intelligence concerning General Lee 
from Camp at Kingston. 

Lee. I must entreat, after a thousand apol- 
ogies, a reconsideration of my assent, to the 
Marquis de La Payette taking command of 
the present detachment. 

Washington. I was under the impression — 
Will General Lee be seated — 

(Seats himself. 
The assent was deliberately proffered. 

Lee. I then viewed it as the proper business 
of a young volunteering General. 

Washington. Young, true but a veteran among 
his elders — Then it answers General Lee's 
purpose better than he had supposed. 

Lee. Undoubtedly — To command a Corps of 
six thousand chosen men is an honor next to 
the Commander-in-Chief — My yielding it 
would have an odd appearance. 

Washington. Not any more than reversing 
your original decision in view of opinions you 
have taken the liberty to express. 

Lee. So far I speak from purely personal rea- 
sons. As an officer I do not think the de- 
tachment should march at all. 



17 

Washington. Then why ask to command it — 
Is General Lee come to dictate what his su- 
perior should or shall not do. 

Lee. At least until the head of the enemy's 
right column shall have passed a certain 
point. 

Washington. It has passed. Is that satis- 
factory to the movement of His Majesty's 
forces. 

Lee. If Your Excellency thinks it necessary to 
advance the whole Army, there is no impro- 
priety in the Marquis Commanding this de- 
tachment as an advance guard. 

Washington. There is no command too im- 
portant for Marquis de La Fayette— He will 
command such troops as the Commander-in- 
Chief sees fit to assign to him, and he will 
command them devotedly and to the mark. 

Lee. That is the province of the first in Com- 
mand, but — 

Washington. But, no buts — 

Lee. Supposing Maxwell's Scotts Morgans 
Jackson's Corps are in the field as a separate 
command under the Marquis until the enemy 
leaves the Jerseys, myself and Lord Stirling 
will be disgraced. 

Washington. It is not possible to successfully 
operate an Army in presence of the enemy 
by means of a battledoor and shuttlecock 
trifling with command — Marquis De La Fay- 
ette is entitled to the same consideration in 



18 

withdrawing that General Lee received in 
rejecting. 

Lee. I have reason to believe the impulse of 
generosity on the part of the Marquis de La 
Fayette inclines him though reluctantly, to 
yield provided he does not bring the enemy 
into action on the morrow. 

Washington. As an expedient I order General 
Lee to march toward the Marquis with Scott's 
and Varnum's brigades, giving him notice of 
his approach. He to command the whole ad- 
vance but not to interfere if the Marquis 
shall have any definite plan of attacking the 
enemy. In that event General Lee will ren- 
der every assistance and countenance in his 
power. 

(Both rising. 

Washington. You will attack the enemy upon 
the first movement of his column from his 
Camp on the morning of the morrow but one 
— The main Army will be in position to sup- 
port the attack and engage in a general ac- 
tion. I trust this will be satisfactory to both. 

Lee. Entirely so to myself, Sir. 

(Salutes — Washington bows across the 
table — Exit Lee. 

Washington. Orderly. 

(Advance Sergeant. 
My compliments to Colonel Scammel. 

(Exit Sergeant. Advance Scam7iiel. 
An express to the Marquis with these words. 



19 

(Scammel writing. 
My Dear Marquis : General Lee's uneasiness 
and your politeness constrained me to de- 
tach him to reinforce you. I shall have an 
eye to your wishes and the delicacy of your 
position. General Lee will notify you of 
his approach and request you to prosecute 
any plan you may have already concerted 
for attacking the enemy. General Lee 
seems satisfied I wish it may prove agree- 
able to you, as I am with the warmest 
wishes for your honor and glory and with 
sincerest esteem and affection. 

George Washington. 
(Scammel folds it and hands to an express. 
Washington. With despatch. 

(Exit express. 
By my orders, Colonel Hamilton will place 
the Army on the road for a nearer position 
in support of the advance. 

(Salute and exit Hamilton. Washington 
returns to his seat, writing. ''Assembly"' 
calls of trumpets and drums. Column to 
fife and drum marches across rear, Wash- 
ington rises, Scammel same. 
Washington. It is not General Clinton's pur- 
pose unless driven, to engage with heavy en- 
cumbrances of his own and the burden of his 
unbidden guests who prefer to be called hum- 
ble subjects of His Majesty than free-born 
citizens of an independent state. Finding us 



20 

encroaching upon his front has he not 
changed direction. And we have among us 
those who would not venture to disarrange 
this convenient programme. Now is the 
time — Never a better to brain clout the 
racers and land the goods. 

(Sentries salute — They join the column 

meanwhile the Scene changes. 

MUSIC. 

A symphonic effect runs softly through the 
lines: The Girl I Left Behind Me. Tune the 
old cow died on. Job stole a Turkey. 

SCENE II. 

Evening of June 27, 1778. Ca7)ip of British Army 

Sir Henry Clixton in Command. Right, mile 
and half deyond ''Monmouth Court House" 
to the parting of the roads leading to 
Shrewshurg and Middletoivn. Left along 
the road from Allentow7i to Monmouth 
about three miles — tMs side of the latter 
place and towards Washington's position. 
Right flank in the skirt of a grove. Left 
covered hy a thick loood, a M07'ass running 
toward the rear. Whole front protected by 
trees and extends towards the left. 

Camp of the Vanguard and Baggage 
tram. Knyphausen commanding, on Free- 
hold height and vicinity. 



21 

The stage represents a wood tp the road- 
side—Among the trees a family coach with 
immense leathern springs, fore and aft— 
Boot well stoiced with luggage — Box icith 
cooking utensils and provender — Roof pre- 
senting a pyramid of 'band boxes and fixings 
belonging to the ladies and cases of rare 
vintages for the delectation of the gentle- 
men—Coach door open, steps doum—An 
improvised table with decanters and 
glasses on it — Rude seats — An inclosure of 
curtains rear of coach— A small tempest in 
a large teapot. 
Meriweather. (With a self-important clearing 
of his throat in the direction of an equally 
self-important specimen of articulated Ebony) 
Stand out the flagon. Rufus of my best old 
Madeira, a little sherry and the decanter, 
with a wafer for a nibble. (To himself). 
The young gentleman will enjoy a round or 
two to rinse away a score or more miles of 
Continental dirt; heat enough to quick the 
silver wings of Mercury and an encore to 
OUR George— the King. 
Rufus. (Getting busy arranging the drink- 
ables, edibles and concomitants, caincidently 
holding an edifying conversation with him- 
self. 

Mass George of ole Virginny a freezin and a 
starvin the whole long winter at de Foge, 
mighty spry dese hot days. He's done gone 



22 

akeepin' dese reds and greens amovin' lively 
and a dodgin' and duokin' fust one way and 
den de udder, like de chicken wid de hawk 
alight'n in on her. Dis here prince peeples 
dey be discuss'n night and day, is not in put'n 
on Sunday fixins and every day airs. She 
as de good man in de mansion in de sky, 
Mass George ,et dar. The Oder George across 
de way sets 'em up fine howsomever. Heeps 
of yellow gold pass'n 'round, but not for 
Rufus. Carousin' all day and a dancing and 
carrin's on wid de ladies de whole blessed 
night and a giv'n jim-crack parties. 

(Getting louder and more emphatic as he 

proceeds. 
That'n to Miss Kiiansa bet 'em all — Lord a 
Mercy — But most 

(Laughing immoderately. 
'Sprisin was dat odder 'sprise one deep dark 
night Mass Clinton our new general and Mass 
Howe de ole one and udder Mass Howe of the 
ships and de Dutch General wid a name's 
long as a fish line an' de green deers, an' 
lager beers, Ingineers, long ears (Chuckling) 
Chasers, cannoneers, ten thousand strong 
they call 'em but all-powerful weak when 
dey comes to business, went a gunnin' fo' de 
little French boy dey call him Markee, a 
hovering 'round like de Fox on de hen coop. 
An' a big party dey set out fo' de ladies of 
de town fo' a show him off, afo' dey catch de 



23 

rabbit but de fust shall be last and de last 
shall be fust. Arter all de plannin and con- 
fidin' in de ladies, when dey got thar dey 
find demselves a firing one at de udder, de 
rabbit he a jumping one way, an dey a run- 
nin' de oposite while de Markee a laughin' 
at 'em fit to tar hees does across de river. 
So dey snoked in thar holes back in town. 
Then a gettin' 'skeer'd o' Mass George com- 
in' a canterin' in wid his Continentals dey 
pull up stakes and skoot de town — wid Mass 
George a foUerin. An sich a humpin' and 
hoppin and hoofin' and here we is Mass 
Adam a leavin' his dudds behind not a 
knowin' what de next minit bringing forth, 
in de say'n of de scriptur. I'se aguine — back 
— Dey skar about de Pine Robbers wait'in in 
de nooiks to cut off de ears and captur de 
wallets of de patrats, Dem ar fellows, Fen- 
ton and Fagan a bad lot as I know. 

But bein' not blessed wid wallets and no 
ears long enough to attract 'ttention, I'se 
guine to abandon de Philistine ana make 
back tracks fo' de land o' Caanan. 

(RuFUs having completed his stunt sub- 
sides — Advancing Meriweather and hia 
spouse. 

Mistress M. I have my doubts — 

Meriweather. You are the Mother of doubts. 
I often wonder how you escaped when it 
came to accepting me. 



24 

Mistress M. You left no room — You filled the 
air with potestations of love and not even 
enough for tv%'o to sit side b:/ side In the 
same settee. 

Meriweathee. In fact — 

Mistress M. I shall turn back. 

Meriweathee. So did Lot's — 

Mistress M. You seem to have no thought of 
the welfare of your daughters — is this the 
place for them? — You men never do compre- 
hend the natural sensibilities of woman. 

Meriweatker. Perhaps not — The Lord did not 
— ^What can you expect — 

Mistress M. There it is again — that stale same 
subject. I am tired listening to Adam's fam- 
ily affairs. It is a sure sign of a guilty con- 
science — I am speaking about Adam Meri- 
weather who has brought us into all this 
trouble. 

RuFus. (Aside). Off center agin. Mass Adam 
an' his Eve not satiated wid dere garden o' 
Eden at home, dey a carryin' It into forin' 
parts. 

Meriweather. Y\"ell, — Change the subject to 
Shadrack — Captain Shadrack. His Intentions 
are proper and Lucille loves him. 

Mistress M. That is a subject about which you 
know little — indeed I might say nothing. 

Meriweather. Evidently, when I married you. 

Mistress M. It is too late to talk about that 
now. I never look to the follies of the past — 



25 

I only wish to add none to the fate of others 
in the future. 

Meriweathek. (LoivJ. Score one for Adam. 
(High). Besides the Baron assures me we 
will be at Raritan in three days and our fur- 
ther inconvenience over — We shall then be 
once more at peace — The girls can again en- 
joy the gayeties to their heart's content. 

Mistress M. Heart's content, poor Maybelle. 
Her's Is not in the red livery of a King. 
(High). Is that why you are putting us to 
all this unnecessary discomfort. Is this what 
all this fighting is about for Your King. 1 
will inform you here Mr. Adam Meriweather, 
they will never win. Then where are you — 
Out in the cold of course — I am not posing 
for a prophetess. 

Meriweather. That is not your stronghold 
Eve — Besides somebody will hear you — 

Mistress M. Eaves-droppers never hear any 
good of themselves. 

Meriweather. Nor is the caudle worth the 
candle. 

Mistress M. You will learn to your sorrow 
some day. "Granny" Howe v/as doing 
his best when Mr, Clinton came to try his 
hand and this is the beginning of the end — 
But for their ships it would be now. A pretty 
set making war on defenseless towns and 
villages along the coast, against old men 
unable to fight and women and children un- 



26 

able to defend with weapons of vile war but 
they give their husbands and sons to help. 
Meriweather. If you keep on in that style you 
will be put down for a whig, an old line — 

Mistress M. I draw a new line right here. 
General Washington and his Army poorly fed, 
clothed and equipped, and perhaps no clothes 
at all but for our good friend the French 
King, with brave hearts are hanging on. I 
shall not be at all surprised at anything. 
Meriweather. Appease your fears or your 
wishes perhaps better. Sir Henry — 

(Enter Shadrack and Vox Asel — The 
young ladies behind the curtains rigged up 
for a boudoir. 
Ah, Captain, I take it you have been having 
a day out. 

Shadrack. Mr. Washington's tatterdemalions 
must be confessed a slippery lot. So we peo- 
ple who go on mounts are expected to keep 
an eye on him — Picked up a young gentle- 
man who is rather short in his accounts of 
himself and his business within our outlying 
pickets — Here is Baron Von Asel one of our 
contingent friends — He is a gentleman of 
excellent taste. (Turning his attention to- 
ward the table). I take the liberty of pre- 
senting him. 

Meriweather. (Pompously). Baron your most 
obedient — A very warm day. 



27 

ASEL. Like Hell (Turning to Eve quite 
shocked). It makes me much unhappy to 
feel your acquaintance. 
Shadrack. Dragoonading the country as we 

proceed. 
Mistress M. I presume you saw nothing of 
General Washington in your travels as he 
enjoys meeting a gallant soldier. 
Shadrack. Not exactly, although we heard of 
him not far away. Still far enough to keep 
out of range. 
Mistress M. (Laughing). They say he takes 
his own time and place for paying respects 
to his Majesty's Army. 
Meriweather. (To Eve). I do not understand 
how you persist in expressing such senti- 
ments under my roof. 
Mistress M. (Low). Under God's free vault 

of heaven. 
Meriweather. (Low). They will take you for 

an enemy to the King. 
Mistress M. (Disdainfully). Surely I am not 
his friend. 

(Lucille and Maybelle ready for exhibi- 
tion, advancing. 
Shadrack. Just the idea — You are quite a 
strategist Madame — His times far between 
and places few do not occupy much space on 
the maps — Fighting wind-mills. 
Mistress M. I am surprised Captain to have 
you admit so much. 



28 

(All laughing heartily at the turn on the 
Captain who vnth Asel greets the latter. 
To her husland. 

(Undertone). Meri — how does that strike 

you. 
Meriweather. (Drawing himself together). 

(Low). I am inclined to coneede one to Eve 

(Loud). Gentlemen in the midst of all this 

amiable sparring, let us not forget the sponge. 
(Casting a signal at Ruf, who steps up 
promptly with the nourishment on a tray 
at sufflcient elevation to afford a hack- 
ground of two rows of wide open ivory. 

Here's to the memory of many happy days 

in the city of Brotherly Love — 

Mistress M. It might be said of Man's dee- 
Vices. 

Meriweather. Gentlemen I think the original 
proposition is being overlooked. 

(RuFus receiving a7iother tip of the Code 
fills 'em up and delivers. 
Shadrack. (Holding up his glass). Good Ma- 
dam — The Declaration of Independence for 
instance. 
Mistress M. That was an after-thought when 
the Declaration of Love and loyalty had been 
rejected — 

(Shadrack joins Lucille strolling away 
right, in a confidential mood. Asel goes 
with Maybelle left, the elders renew their 



29 

conjugal colloquy moving a little to the 
rear. 
ASEL. (Getting sociable). You dont luf me 

any more. 
Maybelle. (Evading his attentions). I have 
not known you five minutes. I might at least 
be allowed a little time for the sake of bettej- 
acquaintance. 
AsEL. Ya — Fife Minuten behind — A very long 
time in ze Army might get kilt — Zen what 
— Zey be no wetting. 
Lucille. How sad that might be. 
Shadrack. Lucille have you ever thought — 
AsEL. Ya I thought to-morrow I wut come yes- 
terday to see you once — Shadrack er sagt die 
zeit but he went away in de sattle. 
Shadrack. Lucille! Lucille! I feel, I feel — 
AsEL. (Falls on his knees). Vat you feel — I 
luf you twice — I kill myself alife for you — 
Sagst du ya un den I vil be gute. 

f^He reaches for Maybelle's hand hut she 
stepping out of reach falls forward all 
fours, casting about. 
Och blitzen, ich bin Von Asel shure. 

(Looking up. 
Dit you understand vat I said notting. 

(Gets up. 
(Enter Andre received by Adam and spouse 
Andbe. I am the bearer of a little Missive re- 
ceived at Headquarters not in the regular 
order of post. Captain Shadrack, to whom I 



30 

am beholden (mutually saluting) and Von 
Asel too (mutually saluting) an agreeable 
party, gathered in his net in yesterday's out- 
ing a young gentleman, circumstantially sus- 
picious, and upon his person was found a 
sweet billet. He will be given a trial by drum 
head to-morrow. It is a document such as a 
young lady might write to one whom she con- 
sidered more than a friend — Somewhat sour 
as to ourselves, not dangerously so, but for 
sweetness nectar itself. The letter will in- 
terest Miss Maybelle to whom I extend my 
most distinguished consideration. (Turning) 
Miss Meriweather my most cordial addresses. 
(All intently interested Maybelle looks at 
the superscription and with great coohiess 
places the letter in her hosom. 

Asel. You haf one correspondent mit de enemy. 

Maybelle. It might be well for you to learn 
the language of the country and how to be 
a gentleman — 

Asel. Dank. (Bowing low). 

Meriweather. Maybelle — 

Mistress M. I like to see spirit in a girl, else 
she would not be a daughter of mine — 

Andre. Bravo, Madame you have a large fam- 
ily in this corner of the earth. 

Meriweather. Does it compromise — 

Andre. Yes — A compromise — the name is cor- 
rect in the calendar of months being May, but 
draws nothing on the lines of beauty for we 



31 

all concede that to your belle is due the palm 
in that class. 

Mistress M. (Making a profound courtesy). 
Major Andre, Adjutant-General of the Brit- 
ish Army in America, you are a gentleman of 
discrimination. 

Meriweather. (Low). An inning for Eve — 

These patriotesses, — esses. 

(Enter Messenger. 

Messenger. Mr. Adam Meriweather, special 
Despatch. 

Meriweather. (To Eve low). Now see to 
what a pass your outspoken sentiments have 
brought us. 

Mistress M. Vocative — Adam. 

(MeriiceatTier all excitement. 
Hand it to me. 

("/ST^e opens the letter. 
From Baron Knyphausen. Orders. Put the 
baggage, he might at least have said 
luggage, in position to move forthwith. 
Here is a Nota Bena. The Baron re- 
grets the necessity of incommoding Mr. and 
Mrs. Meriweather and daughters, but a sud- 
den movement of Mr. Washington and his 
followers threatens our line of direction. 
Precaution is better than procrastination. 
Nothing more. Give yourselves no unneces- 
sary alarm. 

Meriw^eather. Rufus, you have your orders. 

RuFus. I have 'em, (Low) Mass George no 
monkey shines when he gits on to 'em. 



32 

Maybelle. (To her mother). It is Reginald. 
I must save him — 

(She moves placidly to her improvised 

toilette where she coolly dons her honnet 

and a light wrap. Officers hastening away. 

AsEL. I vould see ze Maybellee. 

Shadkack. Come, Asel — No time to stand on 

ceremony. 
Asel. I no stand, you run. 
Maybelle. (Stepping out). Rufus come with 

me. 
Rufus. I'se a guine Miss Honey. 

(They proceed to leave. 
Meriweather. (Sternly). Rufus, Rufus — A 

deserter — The Pine Robbers. 
Rufus. I'se a pinin — for dem — same old flesh 
pots. 



SCENE III. 

1 A. M., June 28, 1778.— The Sabbath. 

Before Freehold Heights. General Lee orders 
General Dickinson forward close to the 
Camp of the enemy for observation and 
2)osts Morgan near enough to open an at- 
tack upon his first movement. Shortly 'be- 
fore daylight Lee starts Grayson with the 
brigades of Scott and Varnum in the direc- 
tion of Monmouth Court House. 



33 

These detachments may he seen moving 
at a distance — 
Dawn — From Freehold Heights. Knyphausen 
Van Guard consisting of Hessian Grena- 
diers, Infantry, Yager's Pennsylvania and 
Maryland Loyalists and the entire train des- 
cends into the Valley hetween Monmouth 
Court House and Middletown, in order to 
give the wagons, packs and horde of re- 
fugees time to get under and out of the 
way in event of a battle. 

This motley array is seen crossing the 
stage rear ty the Monmouth Road, 

8 A. M. Sir Heney Clinton having trans- 
ferred his chosen troops from the Van to 
the rear to meet the dispositions and evi- 
dent purpose of General Washington, 
moves from his position on Freehold 
Heights with the main British Army con- 
sisthig of the SJfth and 35th Brigades; 2d 
Battalion of Grenadiers; Hessian Grena- 
diers. Battalion of Light Infantry; The 
Guards and 16th Regiment of Light Dra- 
goons, and resumes his march toward Mid- 
dletown. 

These troops pass across the rear of the 
stage following the baggage train. 

The advance of Wayne's Pennsylvania 
and Maxwell's New Jersey Brigades as if 
in pursuit appear on the road at rear of 



34 

stage, after Clinton's troops have passed, 
and halt for orders. 

(Enter La Fayette and staff. 
La Fayette. Having failed of the expected op- 
portunity to bring His Excellency, Sir Clinton 
to a ball and bayonet exercise — 

(Enter Lee and staff mutually saluting. 
I was observing, not having been favored 
by the fortunes of war v^^ith an opportunity 
to make an engagement with Sir Henry, 
within the hours of yesterday I novv- await 
the orders of his countryman General Lee, 
for such disposition of favors as he may 
have in view. 

(Lee appears disconcerted. 

Lee. I trust Marquis de La Fayette shall not 
be disappointed. 

(Enter Messenger from General Dickinson 
to La Fayette. 
La Fayette. (To messenger handing him a 
paper). I wish it understood Marquis de La 
Fayette is no longer responsible for the 
operations of the Advance Corps of the 
American Army. 

(Messenger turning to Lee — Hands him the 
paper. 
Lee. (Scanning the contents). "The British 
Army is now in motion toward Monmouth." 

Dickinson. 
(Another Messenger to Lee. 



35 

(Reads). The main American Army is now 
in march to co-operate with the Advance 
Corps. General Lee will press forward with 
the utmost vigor and attack the enemy unless 
there be reasons why he should not. By or- 
der of General Washington. 
(Aside). A proviso, always a loop-hole to 
sinister designs — for reasons satisfactory — 
This is my queue to the tale of woe, thou 
wilt strum ere the set of Sun. Then buckled, 
in thy vain endeavor to right the wrongs you 
chant about, you will learn the wrongs as 
you would have them, so over-burdened by 
the rights of others that falling back to your 
native state your generation will wish you 
had ne'er been found. (Looking at his time 
piece) 9 o'clock. Grayson now passed the 
Freehold house of God, so he will be as this 
comes to hand one-half by two miles ap- 
proaching the field of Mars at Monmouth. 

(Enter Grayson. 
I had thought you well on toward Monmouth. 

Grayson. The youth who bore your order gave 
it as his opinion I had better halt than ad- 
vance being on the way he had learned the 
main British Army moving to attack — The 
custom of war does make the Aid the mouth- 
piece of his general and this important ten- 
dril of our octopus to be thus clipped led 
forth to inquiry. 

Lee. Go too and av/ait my order. 



36 

(Grayson back to his column. Enter Dick- 
inson. 

Dickinson. As I held the hight across the 
field, the rumor spread so far that Sir Henry- 
hard pressed, had turned at bay to give his 
trains vantage of leaving in their rear great- 
er room for eventualities. 

Lee. When intelligence comes this way to fit 
the purpose of such disposition it shall be 
sent you. Hold your present ground. As you 
are here post two regiments on the hill be- 
yond and secure the road hard by. 

(Exit Dickinson. 
One says the enemy is in flight. The 
other is moving for attack. In the midst 
of this confusion of intelligence comes that 
suspecting inferential, pestitlential French- 
man at the head of the main body of Advance. 
(Enter La Fayette and aid saluting. 

La Fayette. Admitting recognition due to the 
experience of General Lee varied by a wide 
scope of performance. 

(Enter an officer of American Light Horse. 

Officer. (10 A. M.) As about to make descent 
upon the enemy — there appeared upon an emi- 
nence in forwardness of attack a squadron of 
the Queen's Dragoons. 

Lee. Allow them to approach as near as may 
be for your safety then retire our Horse to 
Wayne — Say by General Lee's order to re- 
ceive them. 



37 

(La Fayette ivith his glass surveying. 

La Fayette. They have not grace sufficient to 
await their tardy orders. Away they go — 
Look Light Horse and Dragoon Squadron and 
Platoon — Take a handicap and hurdle for 
place of rally — Ah — See gallantly Butler 
brings the Queen's to their haunches — They 
halt — They reel — To the rear they fly in pell- 
mell disorder. And there in the thickest see 
keen-sighted Oswald, famed leading the for- 
lorn hope of Arnold against these same Brit- 
ishers on Quebec's cliffs, pounding them with 
his pounders — Aha Wayne brave, Wayne, see 
his bristling battle line like the sea wave 
swelling. See that flashing emblem the pres- 
sage of victory. 

(Lee hastily scrihhling on a piece of paper. 

Lee. (To a courier). Quick thee to delivery 
of this superscription to its destination. 

{Courier rushes out. 

La Fayette. He comes within approach of 
cannon range. Now men to your steel. Give 
it them to the shank — Before his withering 
scorn of danger see the red coats feeling it 
time to vanish — What now of a sudden — It 
cannot be brave Wayne — with victory in cer- 
tain reach — 

Lee. As you are so circumspect in your ob- 
servations at this point of battle — 

La Fayette. No longer in command whose of- 
fice is it to be with the troops looking to 



38 

their longing wish to assault (Aside) in the 
cause he did in mental reservation foreswear 
and now seeming to do a thing in which he 
hath no heart — 

(Enter Wayne in excitement. 

Wayne. (11 A. M. to Lee). With the hand 
outstretched to pluck the blooming rose came 
this withering word. 

Lee. To make but a feigned attack and not 
push to overmuch precipitation, thus 'twould 
be subversion of a deeper plan — (Aside) to 
cut off the covering parties of the enemy 
or otherwise. 

La Fayette. (Aside). Thus making cover of 
his inward perfidy, a decoy to the confidence 
of honest men. 

Wayne. As a soldier I obey the orders of my 
superior, as a citizen of these States I hold 
its good intent in abeyance — I can yet re- 
cover what this vacant moment hath left 
undone. 

La Fayette. (Intently surveying the field and 
and conversing with Wayne, Lee apparently 
giving orders to his aid). There is much 
mystery in these methods of procedure, 

Wayne. (To La Fayette aside). It would 
seem the art of treachery rather than of 
strategy. He is sending on a fool's errand 
in detachments out of the woods below with- 
in cannon shot of the King's forces when 
rather he should press them with his force at 



39 

command, I had hold of them when his 
strange orders fell as a paralytic. 
La Fayette. Sir Henry as I estimate the 
moves upon the board of battle bears impres- 
sion, our forces do march in force upon both 
his flanks designing to appropriate that 
valuable yet encumbering commodity of war, 
his royal baggage and even more embarras- 
sing with liabilities large and assets small — 
his loyal luggage masculine, feminine and 
neuter, now trailing its snakey length on to- 
ward Middletown — In this belief he hath 
changed his front about ready to fall upon 
thy serried line with so great weight to com- 
pel our forces operating on his flanks to go 
to thy support thus making one concentra- 
tion for his convenience when we should have 
three for our own success. 

Wayne, I shall at least have the honor to hold 
my position at arms fixed if by your orders 
I may not carry theirs at bayonets charge. 

(Exit Wayne to his Go^nmand. 

La Fayette. I see a cloud in yonder corner of 
the plain, with guidons flying and stems of 
glistening steel sparkling in the rising dust. 
Sir Henry's Horse bidding for thy right. Now 
is the rising of the tide, with thy permission, 
I will seek their rear, attack and their dis- 
persion follows. Then pushing on supported 
by our chief now in motion in a body to thy 



40 

support, victory is assured — Complete in de- 
tail and destiny. 

Lee. My dear Marquis. You do not know 
British soldiers. 

La Fayette. Then I must be ignorant of many 
generations of inheritance of war, last, the 
sire of this breath who parted, his own on the 
bloody field of Minden. 

Lee. Maybe, valor by inheritance is that quan- 
tity, which in thee may be of second nature, 
but at third hand in others it may not be so 
esteemed. 

La Fayette. It may he general but British sol- 
diers have been beaten — Within these very 
bounds of one, United States. They may be 
again — I am disposed to make the trial. 

Lee. It may fall to your lot — I go to take the 
length and breadth of the enemy. 

(Exeunt Lee and aids. 

La Fayette. Clear as the noon tide ray — Thus 
this envenomed serpent courts defeat and its 
entailed horrors to our friends, than victory 
in emulation of the meed of Washington, whom 
he counts more bitter enemy than the soured 
flesh within himself. This is no figment of 
the fancy — The heat of intrigue is not yet 
cold since a miscarriage uncovered the gross 
enormity. 

(Writing. 
(Handing the letter). Gimat put a kite to 
thy horse's heels and with lightning speed 



41 

pass this along. Thy wit a la militaire doth 
inspire thee with its destination. 

(Exit Gimat. Enter an express handing 

a paper-. 
"Marquis de La Fayette will wheel column by 
his right, gain and attack enemy's left." 

Does he mean to entrap me too in the 
meshes of his guilt. See Wayne holding up 
his trembling banner on the left, weakened 
by Wesson, Stewart and Livingston with- 
drawn to support the right — That means mis- 
chief in the air. Clinton of a surety hath 
countermarched his way to Middletown and 
is making back his force for a stand at Mon- 
mouth. (Eagerly). And see the right fall- 
ing to the rear ere their support doth come 
up. Wayne, without his normal strength, to 
meet the pressure of Clinton's whole fast 
approach. And so the retrogade of events 
goes on — Scott and Maxwell well lined for 
the fray, making ill omened haste back for 
Freehold Heights. 

(Enter an express. 
Noon. The Marquis de La Fayette will with 
draw his battle line to Monmouth by orders 
of General Lee. This means retreat — A 
crumbling mass of valor, undermined by in- 
famy — Tell General Lee this is no surprise 
to Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de La Fayette. 
Bear in mind the name — adding nor, is it to 
himself. Can you recall the phrasing. 



42 

Express. I can sir. 

La Fayette. Then put it so and make haste 
ere it is too late. 

(Suddenly a great roar of voices followed 

by the American troops in retreat across 

rear. 
La Fayette. (With his stcord aloft). 
Halt!— Halt! 

(Men rushing in all directions across stage 

as the scene changes. 



SCENE IV. 
11 A. M. Freehold Church — Forks of the road. 

Main hody of the American Army halted await- 
ing development on General Lee's lines — 
General Washixgtox dismounted with his 
arm thrown over his horse — Officers near — 
Life Cruard and soldiers about — Head of 
coluynn on the road, rear — 

(A messenger from the front. 
Washington. (Receiving the paper). A word 
from Lee (reading) "I am in touch with the 
enemy and forming plans to cut him off" — 
Opportunity is fair to wipe out all color of 
doubt. 

(Hands the paper to Scammel — Addressing 
General Greene. 
Advance by the Freehold road to grapple 
the enemy in the rear of Monmouth. This 



43 
Army shall be in double readiness for your 
own and Lee's support. 

(Soldiers throw off their packs to de free 
for action — Greene salutes and retires- 
Enter GiMAT hands Washington a paper. 
(Reading) "False movements under my own 
observation impels me to urge the utmost 
importance of the personal espionage and 
control of the Commander-in-Chief over the 
movements of the day. I am convinced Gen- 
eral Lee is actuated by cowardice or treach- 
ery." 

Marquis de La Fayette. 
(Simultaneously enter a countryman. 
you are in haste. What speeds you to such 
a panic. 
Countryman. (In great excitement). I am a 
patriot born and doing. Our friends in front 
are in retreat. 
Washington. How dare sv^ear yourself a pa- 

troit and be bearer of such an idle tale. 
Countryman. I speak what I have seen I 

could not dream it— I court a victory. 
Washington. Take this monger into custody. 
Countryman. (While being seized). There's 
one who has out-leaped the rest, take him 
for a cross witness. (Aside). Better not be 
idle here on quibbles, when there be argu- 
ment over there on facts. 

(Enter a Fifer. 
Washington. What is your business— Piping 



44 

with your runners, when you should be pip- 
ing tunes to fight by. 

FiFER. I blew 'em a string of keys, when I be 
blowed no one left to blow for, so joined the 
rest on a running scale. 

Washington. You shall be flogged do you re- 
peat it — Put him out of hearing lest he does 
spread a whirlwind of alarm among these 
steady men advancing to the fray. 

(Enter a soldier. 
What brings you here? Where is your 
officer? 

Soldier. I saw him break away and dusted 
with the rest. 

Washington. (To an aid). Haste thee to the 
point center of the storm and bring the bear- 
ing of the wind. I do believe my ears, 
though at issue with the sight before me. I 
have heard but few cannon peals, the uner- 
ring tocsin of the murderous undertaking. 
(Aside). Would he dare retreat without a 
stroke for honor and to top it, to thus give 
endorsement of his adverse opinion before 
the battle's on. (To the guard). Free those 
truthful men for their early report — Here 
come Grayson — Patten with their battled 
heroes in disorder such as I never saw them, 
in worse stress than this. 

Washington. (To an officer). Is the whole 
Advance corps in retreat. 

Officer. I am of that disgraced belief. 



45 

Washington. (In severe tones). Incredible! 
incredible! General Lee must have been 
wary of his ammunition. Holding to the 
highest pitch, to ikey the responsive note of 
battle, I heard but little firing. 

(Head of retreating column appears from 
the direction of the field. 
Halt there. Here is brave Shreve I never 
knew him in such a posture of affairs. What 
brings you here? 

Shreve. Orders. I knew of no fighting to 
warrant them — A slight tilt with the enemy's 
cavalry, which was promptly repulsed. 

Washington. March these brave men to the 
hill you see beyond the Morass — Halt them 
on its crowning summit — Refresh them for 
other duty than retreat. 

(Major Howard approaching. 
What brings you in this retrogade. 

Howard. I would like to know. I have never 
seen its equal for disgrace. 

Another Officer. (Speaking up J. By the Al- 
mighty Lord of Hosts, we are flying from a 
shadow. 

Washington. My countrymen in our homes, 
comrades in the field. This is not the way 
to Liberty. All who still possess the spirit 
of "Seventy-six" countermarch and follow. 

(Manent all. Dark change. 



46 



SCENE V. 

Meridan — Another part of the field. 
On the Road between Freehold Church and the 
Causeioay. 

Washington. (In a Hate of great exaspera- 
tion). So this fellow — this artful fellow has 
played me. Here he comes proudly at the 
head of a broken unbattered train. The 
world might misconstrue a victor. Halt these 
misguided heroes. Is this the direction of 
the enemy. 

(As General Lee comes up — In a tone of 
reprimand. 
I desire to know sir, the meaning of this 
confusion. 

Lee. (In a stumhling manner). I know of no 
confusion but what is natural from disobedi- 
ence of orders, contrary intelligence, imper- 
tinence — 

Washington. Greater, impertinence to under- 
take command unless you meant to light the 
enemy. 

Lee, And presumption of individuals invested 
with no authority intruding themselves in 
matters above them. 

Washington. And said individuals if by that 
plural number you point at one, would that 
more in such extremity were so faithful to 
their duty. 



47 

Lee. The retreat in the first instance "^-as 
contrary to my orders and contrary to my 
wishes. 

Washington. I recall you came a begging back 
the command 3'^ou did surrender. I have cer- 
tain knowledge the movement was but a 
strong covering party for the safer expedi- 
tion of the enemy's flight and baggage. 

Lee. It may have been, but was stronger than 
mine. I did not propose to beard the Brit- 
ish lion in his den. 

Washington. Not to be expected of you, what- 
ever your own opinion may have been. I 
looked for my orders to be obeyed — Bah! 
Booh! Bah! At least notice of turning tail 
to the enemy, as you had two hours in which 
to do both. You now see the consternation 
you invoked is changed to confidence. 

(Lee attempting to explain. 
No time novs^ for v/hys and wherefores — Fif- 
teen minutes grace to change the destiny of 
universal time — (Aside) By quick combina- 
tion may we route them yet — By good fortune 
nature right here has marked out the spot 
for good rally and a stand against a multi- 
tude of odds — Ramsey and Stewart rush for 
the vvood I point you and under cover of a 
sheet or two of lead to warm them to rest. 
Oswald with two crackers unlimber on that 
height and give them fire — brimstone — 
boluses, Hell, to make them dance the jig of 



48 

death and I guaranty in the minutes to say 
it there will be a pretty reel. Ah, by quick 
dispatch pressing on the verge of destruc- 
tion, now in battle array — Let them on with 
their "Granny-dears" we care naught — not a 
"Continental." 

Steadfast, to the crisis past. 
•He laughs best who laughs last.' 

(Turning to Lee. 

Lee. I can give no orders as I have no fur- 
ther command, 

Washixgtox. Will you sir, on this height, 
I shall stand the main Army on the next to 
greet them formally. 

Lee. I will sir. It is to me equal where I 
command. 

Washington. I shall require of you measures 
on the spot to deadlock the enemy. 

Lee. Your orders shall be obeyed — I shall not 
be the first to leave the field. 

Washington. Then see to it and I shall raise 
a wall of opposition in reserve, they cannot 
break down nor resist its impact — 

(Exit Washington for another 'part of the 
field — Dark change. 



49 



SCENE VI. 
1 P. M. The American Second Line. 

A strong enfilading height — Another height 
covered by a tvood and a Morass in front. 
Left wing commanded hy Lord Stirling — • 
Right iving hy Greene Center and the whole 
hy Washington. 

General Lee having fought his men to 
the extent of retarding the advance of the 
enemy retires pursued by the Royal Light 
Horse. 
Lee (To Washington) Forced to retire be- 
fore unequal numbers I have done so in 
good order, resting in line beyond the Morass 
— Here are my troops. How is it your pleas- 
ure I shall dispose of them. 
Washington. My Dear Sir. Move to the rear 
of Englishtown and reform in reserve as- 
sembling there all fugitives. 

(Exit Lee — Turning to Scammel as he 
looks to the right. 
Mi Lord Stirling having given them a sur- 
feit of contradiction of their desperation to 
budge him they now turn to Greene and find 
him full as contentious of his nine points 
possession, with hard Knox, our Henry, as 
enfilader. 

(Reenter Lee. 
Lee. Obedient to command having taken to 



50 

the post assigned finding Steuben on that 
same duty my presence not necessary I re- 
turn to the battle front tendering service 
wherever assigned. 
Washington. There now appears no hole to fit 
the peg — So pre-occupied is the prosecution ot 
events upon the trying and triumphant field 
of Monmouth. I fear must General Lee suit 
the truism to live to fight another day. 
(Lee bowing moves away — Turns with a 
malicious look — Exit — Darh change. 



SCENE VII. 
2 P. M. The "Bloody Angle." 

C0MB8 HILL — An orchard sheltered in part 
by a barn — A battery in action; Infantry 
supports near. Positions at gun looking 
to front. Chief of Piece right, rear. 
Trumpeter same. 1. Cannoneer toho 
charges, left of muzzle. 2. Cannoneer who 
sponges and rams, right of muzzle. 3. Bom- 
badier at vent with stall on Middle finger 
right of breach. 4- Gunner who fires, with 
service of port fire and primer left of 
breach. 5. G^mner at tiller to point, rear 
of piece. 6. Boynbadier at a^nmunition, box 
on Caisson, serving cartridge, rear of piece. 
7. Matross who carries the haversack con- 
taining the charge passes between caisson 



51 

and piece left of it. 8. Matross tcho re- 
ceives the cartridge at gun and passes it to 
Cannoneer No. 1. 

Words of Command: 1, To Action; 2, 
Stand Fast; 3, Load; 4, Sponge; 5, Ram; 
6, Fire — Piece in action. 
Wayne. (To Chief of Gun and watching the 
effect of the shot). A cross fire on them — A 
center — what a gaping wound it leaves — give 
them another and see the doubling of their 
two extremitiee, as griped with a stomach- 
ache. (Another shot). Ah what a winrow 
of death in its path. 

(Several of the gunners fall wounded or 
killed. Enter "Molly Pitcher" with a 
"bucket of water — Gunner No. 2 reels and 
falls. 
There goes our gallant rammer. He did send 
them home and odds luck he's gone to keep 
them company — Remove the piece ere we set- 
tle down to closer quarters and the issue of 
the day — 

(Captain Molly drops her ducket and 

rushes forioard. 

Molly. Not so hasty gentlemen. Here's Jack 

Hay's helping mate be the handle broken 

but na the spout — Not his better half but 

quite his equal — Give me the sponge. 

(She pulls a much torn and bloody hand- 
kerchief from her breast, stoops and kisses 
the gory face and caressingly. 



52 

Good-bye mi boy — Sleep eternal and I shall 
make thim pay the score o making thy Molly 
a widow. 

(She lays the rag tenderly over his face — 
Rises seizing the rammer. 
Give it me. The proovin' of the puddin' is 
the eating. (The charger places a cartridge 
in the muzzle) — I shall ram it down their 
hollering throats — (Gives it several hard 
ones, withdraws and at position Fire.) 

Gunner. (Cheering). Give it 'em Captain Molly. 

Wayne. See them break and run — 

Molly. They have at least some respect for 
the ladies. 

(A voice within hearing. 

MoNCKTON. Grenadiers — When the tide of bat- 
tle halts, who of England's tower of strength 
does say whether for the ebb or flow — 

VoTCES. (Shouting). His Majesty's Royal 
Grenadiers — 

MoNCKTON. Here is a question, and there is the 
answer. 

Voices. The bay'net of old England has never 
faltered in response. 

MONCKTON. Follow me loyal Englishmen — and 
carve the rebels for an afterpiece — It is the 
center of their strength pierce it and they 
tumble — 

(An intervening veil lifted reveals the 
British front at hayonets charge ready to 
fall to luork. 



53 

Wayne. Steady men — Hold your fire till near 
— Then range sight for pickings — Officers 
taking rank first by courtesy then the wave 
as it breaks upon the shore. 
Gunners. Rear. 

(Retire from the front. 
MoNCKTON. (Waving Ms sicorclj. Come on my 
hoys — Grenaaiers — Forward — A harvest . 

(Advancing. 

Follow for — 

(A volley — Monckton falls. 
God and the King onward — then take me 
back to die — (gasps and dies.) 

(British line wavers and falls hack. 
Wayne. Advance men for Old Glory's sake. 

(Americayis secure Monckton's tody. 
Sergeant of Grenadiers. There being no offi- 
cers but what's laid low — Lay lovv^ brother 
grenadiers — Monckton and revenge. 

(A hand-to-hand encounter over Monck- 
ton's body. 
Wayne. Drag off the carcass of a gallant soul, 
and former worthy man and enemy — Grand 
prize of victory. 

(Grenadiers return to the fray. In melee 
Monckton's hody is dragged off hy a party 
of Americans — A desperate struggle — 
Destiny in the balance. 
Wayne. (To the men). Well done — None ever 
deserved better of their country — None fore- 



54 

most of the fore ne'er planted the oriflamme 
of the world's enfranchisement. 

(Enter Washington. 
Washington.. .(Saluting). "Mad" Anthony — 
There's method in his madness. If thou wert 
other than a man in all his parts, I should 
embrace thee for a token of grateful con- 
sideration — Aye of affection — Poor with thy 
gallant own and the Carolinas, push in hard 
pursuit Gain their right, Woodford on their 
left to circumvent escape and artillery to gall 
their front — 

(Exit Poor and Woodford — Dark change. 



SCENE VIII. 

Twilight. Into the night and approaching 
daicm. 

The American Main Army in Bivouac on the 
plain of Monmouth. The stage repre- 
senting a wood — Soldiers on outer edge in 
Mvouac — Sentries moving ahout. Wash- 
ington wrapped in his great coat reclining 
at the foot of a tree — La Fayette the same 
hy his side — 
Washington. But for that bunion of self-as- 
sertion this tick of time would have seen Sir 
Clinton circumvented in his tracks without 
let or hindrance to his marching back to 
Philadelphia, as our guest. 



55 

La Fayette. Presentiment against the accused 
not infrequently follows presentment of the 
plaintiff— His conduct to the man up a tree 
was clear — The British deserter about Gen- 
eral Lee wJien in prison whom we have, let 
the cat out of the bag. 

Washington. Admitting the escaped felines, 
mew, Clinton seeing Lee descending in his 
rear from Freehold Heights suddenly turned 
aided by troops from Knyphausen, compelling 
to Lee's support the flankers of Morgan and 
Dickinson, thus threatening Clinton's bag- 
gage found himself in front of the rear 
division of the British Army. 

La Fayette. That being as my general says: 
General Lee made no disposition whatever to 
checkmate nor did he dispatch express to his 
Chief for orders nor even time to give him 
reasonable opportunity for an offset to the 
rush. 

Washington. The hypothesis and concurring 
circumstances shall have inquiry in full. I 
make no disputation of what you say — So 
good night Marquis until the radiant hope 
of the morrow brightens us to success. 

La Fayette. Good night my General may thy 
slumbers rest undisturbed by wars raven- 
croakings — My ears are pricked to the shouts 
of victory — 

Washington. Good night, my son. 

La Fayette. Good night. 



56 

(Silence. 

Sentry. (Watching over the General in Chief 
Halt and present). Heaven shower blessings 
upon thee — God and the Right — Thou art the 
Right — (Poise Arms and resume, heat Halts 
and looks at a distance). Their fires burn 
uncommon bright — They must be fearing 
some sudden onslaught — Their sentries are 
alert — Their guns stacked — They slumber off 
their sorrows — 

(Resumes his measure of duty Few mo- 
ments of silence — Suddenly Reveille near 
and far in the American Camp. 

Washington. (Quickly on his feet, His order- 
ly assists in putting on his sword musing) 
Buckle on the armor of righteousness — 

(La Fayette up. 
Marquis it v%'as a quiet night for so near an 
arrogant foe. 

La Fayette. You have handed him a lemon. 1 
would say a sour but for the early strategy 
of his friend — 

(Enter an aid bringing in a prisoner. 

Aid. The bivouac nearest to the hostile lines 
at the very break of dawn taking measure- 
ment of the enemy, found Camp deserted and 
sends this sample not making good escape. 

Swift. (In British uniform). With great 
good fortune over-looked — 

Washington. How was it Sir Henry took such 
sudden leave? 



57 
Swift. Because he sought no care of making 
yesterday's a continuous performance after 
leaving four officers and forty men too 
heavily leaden to travel, besides two hundred 
and forty lifeless tenements of clay strewn 
about the field and many fresh mounds to 
score up the list of stiff and limp not spirit- 
ed away nor does this take count of those on 
leg— leave to join the Girls they left behind. 
Washington. Your friends take kindly to their 

sweethearts in the buff. 
Swift. Six hundred of them would not cover 

the number of desertions. 
Washington. When did the quick step begin? 
Swift. Double quicked when the night was 
young, waning to the turning of another day, 
with the rising moon leaving their fires 
brightly burning they swung away so steai- 
thiry that even the wakeful owl might not 
make note of their departure. 
Washington. Thou art a ready reference 
(Turning to the guard)— UolA the captive. 
(Turning to Scammel)— I have in my hand a 
communication from General Charles Lee an 
insult to the dignity of the Chief Command 
of this Army and to its personnel. Colonel 
Scammel will place General Lee under ar- 
rest upon charges. 

Disobedience of orders in not attacking the 
enemy, agreeably to repeated instructions. 



58 

Misbehavior before the enemy by an un- 
necessary, disorderly and shameful retreat. 

Disrespect to the Commander-in-Chief in 
two letters of date inscribed. The trial on 
these charges shall be by military Court on 
the fourth day ensuing. 

{Exit ScAMMEL, enter General Greene con- 
ducting Captain Molly. 
Wayne. I take honor and pleasure in present- 
ing to the notice of our Chief, the heroine of 
"Monmouth" by honorary rank conferred by 
her comrades in the thickest of the fray — 
"Captain Molly." 
Washington. I take off my hat to glorious wo- 
man. In the home, at the loom and plough 
has she done her full share in the cause we 
hold dear. When a conflict so just has the 
smiles of wives and sweethearts to nerve the 
souls of men, success is assured. I pro- 
nounce Thee Sergeant by Commission, and a 
place upon the half-pay list of officers for 
life. 

(Cheers of officers and men. Captain Molly 
salutes a la militaire and falls hack — She 
is immediately surrounded hy an admiring 
group of soldiers protesting love. Enter a 
guard with a prisoner in continentals. 
Washington. What does mar the bright 

visions of the day. 
Guard. A deserter picked up in the camp of 
the enemy. 



59 

Washington. Strip him of his rank and hold 
him for a martial. 

(As the guard proceeds to strip the 
prisoner of his epaulettes — 
Shadrack. I ask forbearance for a word, be- 
fore thus treating an honorable enemy. 

(The guard desists for a moment. 
(Enter guard escorting the Meriweathers 
in no merry mood. Rufus elated, Von Asel 
eclipsed, in a strata hat. countryman's coat 
and nankeen pants hroad in legs and short. 
Washington. (To an aid). For an early walk 
the vantage of three hours, ensures his ma- 
jesty's forces once more taking sand at the 
Hook, under cover of Howe's fleet 'round 
from Philadelphia. Light parties will ha- 
rass him thither and rejoin this Army before 
New York. 

(Exit Aid— Turning to the group. 

Guard. Scouting the Britishers in their flight 
by the roadside stranded lay a hulk, ensign 
down as if it were the ark of Noah — 

Meriweather. Adam— Meriweather, Your Ex- 
cellency. 

Rufus. (Aside). An' like de dove I was a 
sarchin round for a landing. I found his 
Mass Marcenary dey call him a sarchin too, 
de one dat stole hees clothes when de bless- 
ed Lode did send his sarvants 'round to bag 
'em an' heear v/e is agivin' thanks. 



60 

Washingtox. Not in the best of Company, Mr. 
Meriweather. Birds of a feather — 

Mistress M. A pair but not of a kind in 
opinion. 

Washington. How so Madame. 

Mistress M. It is not always in the line of 
circumstances to choose one's own surround- 
ings. 

Washington. As the situation changes. 

Mistress M. On conditions. Oftentimes love 
does disturb our natural flow of interest into 
diverse channels. 

Washington. A tory blend — Ah — A wayward 
messenger Madam. 

Mistress M. Dividing King and Country. 

Washington. I have it here. These young 
gentlemen. 

(Advance Swift and Shadrack. 
One in the livery of his master an honorable 
prisoner, the other in the colors of his fel- 
low freeman, a deserter. 

(Lucille rushes forward by the side of 
Swift m British and Maybelle hy Shad- 
rack in Continental uniform. 

Washington. (To Shadrack in Continental) — 
What have you to say In mitigation of a sol- 
dier's worst malfeasance of honor with death 
its only paliation. 

Maybelle. Spare him good General. My 
Reginald I know better of him than to desert 
his loving trusting Maybelle — Let him speak 



61 

and if it be true as you charge then shall 
I too prove, deserter not to the faith I have, 
but to its false friend. 

Washington. Then let him speak for his de- 
fense. I shall give ear — Let justice be done. 

Shadrack. (Saluting). I was so dead asleep 
from yester's busy day, 'pon waking in the 
morning light did think the world turned 
into The Garden. Finding none other ward- 
robe nearer than a leaf, a seeing this (point- 
ing to his lapel) lying close I did don it for 
decency whereupon by some magic a file did 
rasped me, then thought I had left my senses 
and the identity of Roland Shadrack, Cap- 
tain in His Majesty's Dragoons, nor a horse, 
a horse to light away in conclusion, etc., ac- 
cording to the clothes by misnomer a Captain 
of Continental Lights. 

Maybelle. Then I take thee Roland for my 
Reginald. 

Shadrack. Thou art not amiss in this. 

Lucille. (Passing across to Shadrack) — 
The outer garb does become Thee. 

Swift. (Crossing taking Shadrack hy the 
hand Washington a7id all amazed). 'Tis true 
what he says. In the hurry of their disap- 
pearance having slipped the guard I found 
this gay Dragoon nestled in the arms of 



62 

death as I thought in the shadow of the moon, 
against further use for the fashions of the 
day — Forgetful of qualms concerning the 
striping of the corpse I did take this unbe- 
coming dress to make good against detec- 
tion, and left this gentleman what I see he 
has put on, a surety does he keep it for a 
blissful hereafter and as for this unfair ex- 
change it was one way out of purgatory. 
And gives me the honor to salute you Gen- 
eral with the true heart (lifting Ms British 
casque) of Reginald Swift Continental Light 
Horse. 

Washington. (In surprise). I greet you and 
grant, fearful of your fate — 

Swift. The same with myself General, but for 
sudden armed intercession I would ere this 
have swung twixt sky and earth another em- 
blazonment of the tablets of my country's 
glory. 

AsEL. (Bursting across the stage addressing a 
soldier in part Hessian uniform) — You steal 
de dress von die Grosse Hertzhog. 

Soldier. Whose hog? 

AsEL. Mein (looking toward the General) — 
You haf my pants vearing. (To Shadrack) 
— Vat you doos mit de wrong clothes horse 
on. 



63 

Washington. Well fitted to a double wedding 
although for a mating of the Colors we can- 
not say as much. Each heart- beneath sighs 
loyalty to his lady love and flag. Of the one 
we wish exchanging a happy bondage in place 
of the chains he would sever. Of the other 
a soldier of honor on parole trusting some 
day to welcome him to our hearts. 

AsEL. Und vere comes in Von Asel. He luf 
ze ole Laty and Ah-dam he go to ze voots. 

Finale. — Music, Washington's March (Fyles), 
and Yankee Doodle. 



END OF PLAY. 



65 



RETROSPECTIVE OF LEE. 



The treason of Arnold, an American, Lee 
(Charles) an Englishman, and the cabal in the 
interests of Gates an Englishman, fomented by 
Conway an Irishman and several Americans of 
general rank and by a clique in Civil life 
against Washington were the three most peril- 
ous situations in the long struggle for Ameri- 
can Independence. 

The Arnold treason and the Conway cabal 
were fortunately nipped in the bud. The per- 
fidy of Lee aiming at the surrender of the Army 
and over-ihrow of Washington, was buried in 
doubt for eighty years before the truth came 
to light through the researches of the Histori- 
cal Society of New York. 

The subject of this infamous purpose was 
son of a Colonel in the British Army and 
daughter of a younger branch of the noble 
house of Lichfield. He entered his father's 
regiment at the age of eleven when it was said 
one-third of the subalterns of the British Army 
were still in the nursery. 

After his father's death he was commissioned 
Lieutenant in the 44th or Bast Essex Regiment 
of the Irish establishment of which his father 
had been Colonel and came with it to America 
— He belonged to the class of which Wellington 



66 

said "if ten thousand British soldiers were 
placed in Hyde Park not an officer in the ser- 
vice could get them out." 

His career began under Braddock in the Val- 
ley of the Monongahela when the Provincial 
Colonel Washington saved the British Army 
from annihilation. Few officers escaped unin- 
jured. Lee was one of the fevv\ 

When Dunbar brought the shattered remains 
into Philadelphia the pottle valor of Lee pro- 
claimed the enterprise as the "Cabbage Plant- 
ing of Expedition" of which he was one of the 
heads. 

His next feat was the part of a villain at the 
home of the lo:/al Schuylers on the northward 
march of Abercrombie against the French. Be- 
ing injured at Ticonderoga and brought back 
he accepted the tender care of the benefactress 
whom he had insulted. So poignant was his 
compunctions he swore her a place in Heaven 
although he declared no other women would 
be there. 

We next hear of him in divers disreputable 
performances during which he came to Major 
in the 193d or Volunteer Hunters in 1761, and 
Lieutenant-Colonel on half-pay upon disband- 
ment in 1772, the highest rank he obtained in 
the British Army. 

In 1762 as Lieutenant-Colonel In the service 
of the King of Portugal he was with Burgoyne 
against the Spaniards. He ran the ^^amut of a 



67 

soldier of fortune on the continent of Europe 
where he became notorious for his villification 
of his superiors and general misconduct. In 
1770 in Italy he signalized his headlong career 
by killing an officer, himself losing two fingers. 

In 1773 he left England for America, where 
he cultivated the Whigs and stood in with his 
old chum Gates. He was in Philadelphia when 
the First Continental Congress met, and talk- 
ing opportunity of their simple notions of mili- 
tary affairs, after which blowing of his own 
horn about the superiority of his genius and 
experience, of course solicited command. He 
was now forty three years of age, thirty-two of 
which he had passed in the British service dur- 
ing which period he never commanded a regi- 
ment. 

The second Continental Congress which met 
in May 1775; notwithstanding a misguided 
coterie in that body in favor of Lee, chose 
George Washington of Virginia, Commander- 
in-Chief, Artemas W^ard of Massachusetts First 
and Charles Lee of England Second Major- 
General. 

Then began the vindictive spirit of Lee t6 
destroy his Chief and betray the cause he had 
forced himself upon and sv/orn to support. 

It was feared at the time, this rebuff would 
affect his zeal. The suspicion was not mis- 
placed. In addition to his unfitness, lack of 
stability of character not to mention his low 



68 

moral sense, it was also felt that the pride of 
the people would never consent, to being led by 
any General but an American born. 

In his displeasure Lee described Ward ap- 
pointed his senior as "a fat old gentleman who 
had been a Church Warden." 

His innate meanness, insatiable ambition, in- 
ordinate selfishness, sordid impulses and im- 
pertinence were shown when, after soliciting 
the appointment, he required of the Congres- 
sional Committee of notification of his appoint- 
ment a bond of indemnity for any losses he 
might sustain although he had an annual per- 
sonal income of £1,000 or about $5,000. He 
bought an American estate for about £5,000, 
borrowing from Mr. Morris the money to pay 
for it and drew on England for £3,000 which 
was returned protested. 

It is recorded when caught at Basking Ridge 
in New Jersey, four miles away from his com- 
mand, it has not yet been discovered why, Lee 
fell on his knees to the British Commander 
and "all agree behaved in a most cowardly man- 
ner apparently frantic with terror." Had he 
shown the same spirit as his American Aid, 
Major William Bradford, French officer and 
American guard he might have escaped. The 
whole transaction had the appearance of an 
attempt to open the way to make terms and get 
back to his friends. 



69 

His command at a distance falling to Gen- 
eral Sullivan, the American soldiers being in- 
formed of his capture showed themselves glad 
to get rid of him. 

It is now established by documents which 
have come to light that while Washington was 
generously putting forward every effort to save 
Lee's neck by holding five Hessian officers and 
Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell as special hostages 
for his safety, he was concocting a plan of re- 
conciliation by condemning the Americans for 
continuing the contest. 

The autograph proof of Lee's treason is en- 
dorsed in the hand-writing of Henry Strachey, 
Secretary to the Royal Commissioners Lord 
and Sir William Howe and backed "Mr. Lee's 
plan 29th March, 1777." It covers 5 octavo 
pages. Print [N. Y. Historical Society Collec- 
tions, 1874 Lee Papers, Vol. IV, pp. 335-427.] 

In connection with this compromising docu- 
ment read Lee's Letter Dec. 12th, 1777, the day 
before his capture to his friend General Gates, 
speaking of "a certain great man as damnably 
deficient," meaning Washington. 

He outlined a campaign in the south v/hich 
he took the liberty of pressing upon the con- 
sideration of his Lordship and General Howe. 

There is nothing to show that Lee had been 
tampered with or solicited. It "must have been 
the voluntary offering of cowardice eager to 



70 

purchase immunity by treacliery and thus open 
the way back to allegiance and protection." 

After being held more than a year, Lee was 
transferred to Philadelphia then in the hands 
of the British. His parole was extended to al- 
low him to visit Congress then sitting at York, 
Pennsylvania. During his visit he was ex- 
changed and rejoined the colors at Valley Forge 
about a month before his remarkable perform- 
ance at 

moxmouth at which point the actiox of the 
Play Begins. 

At the termination of the battle of Mon- 
mouth Lee having indulged in vituperation of 
Washington was placed under arrest, tried by 
Court-martial and sentenced to suspension for 
one year, (practically dismissed) which was 
confirmed by Congress. 

He lived through the rest of the war in con- 
scious disgrace. In his last moments which 
occurred at Philadelphia he shouted "Stand by 
me my brave grenadiers." 



71 

CAPTAIN "MOLLY" PITCHER 
A Remarkable Case of Mistaken Identity. 

MARY LUDWIG HAYS, 
Heroine of Monmouth. 

MARGARET COCHRAN CORBIN, 
Heroine of Fort Washington. 

There exists a conflict of identity as to two 
heroines of the war for American Independence 
for which there can be no excuse except the 
carelessness of persons assuming to write 
history. 

The case in point is the mistaken personal- 
ties of Mary Ludwig Hays, the heroine of 
"Monmouth," a Pennsylvania German, and 
Margaret Cochran Corbin, of Pennsylvania of 
Scotch Irish stock and Virginia-Pennsylvania 
parentage. 

A local authority in the Telegraph of Harris- 
burg, Pennsylvania, March 5th, 1907, calls at- 
tention to this mix-up. 

By way of comment the writer says: 

Historian after historian in referring to the 
War for American Independence, makes men- 



72 

tion of the valor of the patriots of the Revolu- 
tion, and of the heroism of the one particular 
woman who is designated as "Moll Pitcher" 
from the services performed by her at Mon- 
mouth and Fort Washington in carrying water 
to the soldiers at the guns. One writer or an- 
other centres her brilliant actions around the 
former engagement, while others in narrating 
the events which led up to the surrender of 
Fort Washington, speak of "Moll Pitcher" as 
gallantly identifying herself with that memor- 
able event, by firing the last gun before its sur- 
render. Investigation and research disclose 
the fact, that these women were not identical 
— and although belonging to or accompanying 
the same artillery force of the Continental 
Army, each earned the laurels which writers 
have heretofore failed to bestow on the right 
women. One of our most noted historians of 
the Revolution referring to "Captain Molly" 
in his account of the action at Monmouth 
states that "she was a sturdy, young camp fol- 
lower, only twenty years of age, and in devotion 
to her husband, she illustrated the character of 
her country — women of the "Emerald Isle." 
The sketches which follow of these heroines of 
Monmouth and Fort Washington, give the facts 
of the courage and skill of two American wo- 
men — one of German, the other of Scotch-Irish 
lineage — records of duty which in any other 
country would be perpetuated in marble or 



73 

bronze. Much fiction has been furnished re- 
lating to these events, but the narratives herein 
set forth will tend not only to perpetuate the 
incidents but preserve the names of two of the 
most heroic womanly figures of the Revolution. 

MOLLY HAYS THE HEROINE OF 
MONMOUTH. 

Mary Ludwig, the daughter of John George 
Ludwig, was born in Lancaster County, Penn- 
sylvania, October 13, 1744. Her parents were 
emigrants from the Palantinate, Germany. 
Mary's early years were spent in the family of 
General William Irvine, then residing at Carl- 
isle. Here she became acquainted with John 
Hays, to whom she was married July 24, 1769. 
When the struggle for independence began, 
John Hays enlisted in Captain Francis Proc- 
tor's Independent artillery company. With al- 
most every command a certain number of mar- 
ried women were allowed, who did the wash- 
ing, mending, and frequently the cooking for 
the soldiers. Among these was the wife of John 
Hays, who gladly availed herself of the priv- 
ilege of sharing the privations and dangers of 
war with her husband. Two years had passed, 
of march, bivouac and battle, and the devoted 
wife followed the fortunes of her partner in 
life. 



74 

It was preserved for her, however, to immor- 
talize her name by one heroic deed. It was in 
the action at Monmouth that her conduct be- 
came conspicuous. Sergeant Hays, who had 
charge of one of the guns, was severely wound- 
ed, and being carried away, the wife took his 
place in the forefront, and when the conflict 
was over assisted in carrying water to the dis- 
abled. This won for her the sobriquet of "Moll 
Pitcher." There may have been other "Moll 
Pitchers," but this heroine of Monmouth was 
none the less than Molly Hays. For her brave 
conduct upon coming to the attention of 
the Commander-in-Chief, General Washington, 
personally complimented her, as she departed 
for her home in Pennsylvania with her wound- 
ed soldier, to show his appreciation of her vir- 
tues and her valuable services to her country. 
Hays never returned to the army, and died a 
few years after the close of the war from the 
ejects of his wounds. Owing to the fact that 
other women were credited with this heroic 
act at Monmouth the State of Pennsylvania, as 
well as the Federal Government in recognition 
of her distinguished services as herein set 
forth, granted her annuities for life. 

Mrs. Hay's subsequently married George 
McCauley, and was afterwards familiarly 
iknown as Molly McCauley. She was a woman 
highly respected by the citizens of Carlisle, and 
at her death, January 22, 1832, was buried with 



75 

the honors of war. In 1876 the patriotic people 
of Cumberland County appropriately marked 
her grave, and the day is coming when the 
name of Molly PvIcCauley will be honored and 
revered by patriots throughout the land. In- 
ured to hardships, privations and sufferings in 
her life, she was a true matron of the Revolu- 
tionary era. Poor, it is true, but conspicuous 
In her loneliness and poverty. 

MARGARET CORBIN THE HEROINE OF 
FORT WASHINGTON. 

Margaret Cochran, daughter of Robert Coch- 
ran, was born in what is now Franklin County, 
Pennsylvania, November 12, 1752. During the 
Indian maraud of 1756, her father was killed 
by the Indians and her mother taken prisoner. 
In November, 1758, the latter was seen one 
hundred miles westward of the Ohio. It is 
probable that Margaret and her brother, John, 
were away from home at the time. In 1765 
nothing had been heard from the mother, and 
the children were yet under the guardianship 
of their maternal uncle. About the year 1772 
Margaret married John Corbin. Of him or his 
antecedents little is known save that he was 
a Virginian by birth. 

At the commencement of the War of the 
Revolution, John Corbin enlisted as a matross 
in Captain Francis Proctor's First company of 



76 

the Pennsylvania Artillery, and his wife ac- 
companied her soldier to the wars. Childless, 
she felt that the patriot cause demanded this 
self-sacrificing duty on her part, and as the 
sequel shows, she proved how brave a w^oman 
could become. At the attack upon Fort Wash- 
ington, a shot from the enemy killed her hus- 
band. There being no one to fill his place the 
offier in command directed the piece to be 
withdrawn. Hearing this order, Margaret 
Cochran unhestitagingly took her husband's 
place, and heroically performed his duties with 
courage until supposed fatally wounded. Her 
services were appreciated by the officers of 
the army. The State of Pennsylvania made 
prompt provision for her, but it was not until 
the Supreme Executive Council called the at- 
tention of Congress to her case that that body 
offered her any relief. 

On the 29th of June, 1779, the Council order- 
ed: "That the case of Margaret Corbin, who 
was wounded and utterly disabled at Fort 
Washington, while she heroically filled the post 
of her husband, who was killed by her side 
serving a piece of artillery, be recommended to 
a further consideration of the Board of War, 
this Council being of opinion that notwithstand- 
ing the rations which have been allowed her, 
she is not provided for as her helpless situa- 
tion really requires." A few days afterward. 
In July, we have the first acknowledgment of 



77 

her services by Congress, which unanimously 
resolved: "That Margaret Corbin, wounded 
and disabled at the battle of Fort Washington 
while she heroically filled the post of her hus- 
band, who was killed by her side serving a 
piece of artillery, do receive during her na- 
tural life, or continuance of said disability, 
one-half the monthly pay drawn by a soldier in 
the service of these States; and that she now 
receive, out of the public stores, one suit of 
clothes or value thereof in money." 

With this documentary evidence, it is as a 
strange thing that Mr. Lossing, in his "Field 
Book of the Revolution." as well as other his- 
torians of greater or lesser note, should attempt 
to give the credit of these heroic achievements 
to some one else. On the rolls of the Invalid 
Regiment in Pennsylvania, commanded by Col- 
onel Lewis Nicola, as it was discharged in 
April, 1783, is found the name of Margaret Cor- 
bin. She was properly pensioned by her native 
State at the close of the war and until her 
death, caused by her wounds received in battle. 
She resided in Westmoreland County, beloved, 
honored and respected by every one. She died 
January 16, 1800, and lies buried in Congruity 
graveyard. For her distinguished bravery in 
these days when patriotism has to be taught, 
it would be well that the women of America, 
so proud of their Revolutionary ancestry, 



78 

should honor her devotion and loyalty to coun- 
try and liberty, by perpetuating her virtues in 
bronze or marble. Mr. De Lancey in writing of 
the capitulation of Fort Washington, enthusi- 
astically wrote: "The deed of Augustina of Ar- 
ragon, the Maid of Zaragoza, was not nobler, 
truer, braver than that of Margaret Corbin, of 
Pennsylvania. 



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